Pronunciations (3)
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/ˈflætɚ/
Pronunciation notes
- General-American
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[ˈflæɾɚ]
Pronunciation notes
- General-American
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/ˈflætə/
Pronunciation notes
- Received-Pronunciation
Verb
To compliment someone, often (but not necessarily) insincerely and sometimes to win favour.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Synonyms
- Examples
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A man that flattereth his neighbour spreadeth a net for his feet.
More examples (1)
1855, William H. Prescott, History of the Reign of Philip the Second, King of Spain, Boston: Phillips, Sampson & Co., Volume 1, Book 1, Chapter 7, p. 242, Some he complimented for their bravery; others he flattered by asking their advice.
To enhance or gratify someone's vanity by praising them.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Synonyms
To portray someone to advantage.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Examples
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Her portrait flatters her.
More examples (1)
Here is her picture: let me see; I think, If I had such a tire, this face of mine Were full as lovely as is this of hers: And yet the painter flatter’d her a little […]
To encourage or cheer someone with (usually false) hope.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Examples
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More examples (1)
[…] I went up, and sat there two Hours and an half before I cou’d discern any Thing like Land; and when I first saw it I told my Comrade, but not being certain I wou’d not call out; for the Case was of such Importance, that they were not to be trifled with, or flatter’d into vain Hopes.
To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Reflexive
- usually
- Examples
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Before the results came out, I flattered myself that I had done well on the test. It turned out I was the worst in the class!
The dire imagination she did follow This sound of hope doth labour to expel; For now reviving joy bids her rejoice, And flatters her it is Adonis’ voice.
To cheer or please (with the idea that); congratulate oneself, especially when the perception is false. In phrasal verb "to flatter with": to encourage, inspire with hope.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
- Intransitive
- Obsolete
- Reflexive
- usually
- Examples
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More examples (1)
Run after that ſame peeuiſh Meſſenger / The Countes man: he left this Ring behinde him / Would I, or not: tell him, Ile none of it. / Deſire him not to flatter with his Lord, / Nor hold him vp with hopes, I am not for him:
Noun
A type of set tool used by blacksmiths.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
A flat-faced fulling hammer.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
A drawplate with a narrow, rectangular orifice, for drawing flat strips such as watch springs.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
Someone who flattens, purposely or accidentally. Also flattener.
Usage- Transitive or intransitive
Noun
Someone who lives in a rented flat.
Usage- New-Zealand
- UK usage
- Transitive or intransitive
- Slang
Verb
praise somewhat dishonestly
- Synonyms
- Antonyms
- Broader terms